Regio- and stereoselective reduction of trans-4-phenylbut-3-en-2-one using carrot, celeriac, and beetroot enzyme systems in an organic solvent

(S)-trans-4-Phenylbut-3-en-2-ol has been obtained in excellent yields and with high enantiomeric excess in the reduction of trans-4-phenylbut-3-en-2-one using the comminuted roots of carrot (Daucus carota L.), celeriac (Apium graveolens L. var. rapaceum), and beetroot (Beta vulgaris L. subsp. Vulgaris) in isooctane. This is the first Letter of this bioreduction with plant tissue in an organic solvent.